Weather
Fiji has two seasons: the wet (rainy) season and the dry season. May is the start of the dry season, which continues until October. It's sometimes called Fiji's winter, and although nights are cooler and you might need a light sweater, most travelers will still consider it warm. There's a chance of rain but much less than during the wet season and unlikely to be more than a shower.
Although temperatures are pretty uniform year-round in Fiji, expect high temperatures of up to 82°F (28°C), which is a few degrees cooler than at the height of the wet season. Humidity is also much lower at this time, which many travelers find more comfortable. The chance of cyclones in May is low, as this month is outside the regular cyclone season (January to March). Unseasonal storms can happen, so buy flexible flights and accommodation if possible, and be prepared to change your plans with a few days' notice if you end up being in the path of an approaching cyclone.
Crowds & Costs
The dry season is generally a prime season for travel to Fiji, but May should be considered more of a shoulder season month. Travelers flock to Fiji from Australia and New Zealand in the Southern Hemisphere winter but more come during the winter school holidays in July. European and North American travelers are drawn during their summer vacations, July and August. Therefore, May is an ideal time to come for the best of two worlds: you can enjoy lower costs and few crowds while still benefiting from generally great weather.
Chat with a local specialist who can help organize your trip.
Where to Go
For a classically idyllic Fijian beach getaway, head to the Mamanuca Islands, west of Viti Levu. When you see photos of white-sand beaches and turquoise seas fringed by coconut palms, there's a high chance they were taken in the Mamanucas. The archipelago of 20 islands offers outstanding snorkeling, diving, kayaking, surfing, sunset cruises, village excursions, and island-hopping adventures by boat.
Taveuni is Fiji's third-largest island and another excellent option for travelers with a range of active interests. As well as beautiful beaches, this island has an array of nature-focused outdoor activities. It's nicknamed the Garden Isle for good reason, and about a third of it is given over to the Bouma National Heritage Park. Hike to impressive Tavoro Falls, snorkel or dive to see the soft corals in the Somosomo Strait between Vanua Levu and Taveuni, or do the Lavena Coastal Walk along the south coast, past black-sand beaches and lush tropical forest.
What to Do
Few things in nature beat a great sunset, and these can be quite an event in Fiji during the dry season. With just a few clouds floating in the sky, the play of colors as the sun sinks beneath the horizon is captivating. The best place in Fiji is the south coast of Viti Levu, known as Sunset Strip, between Sigatoka and Navua. Grab a drink and a lounger at your resort, or find a peaceful spot on a quiet beach to take in the show.
Diving (and snorkeling) are at their best in Fiji in the dry season as the sea is calmer and therefore clearer than during the wet season (although a little colder). Head to Kadavu Island, south of Viti Levu, to explore the incredible Great Astrolabe Reef, one of the largest barrier reefs in the world. Many resorts on Kadavu offer diving trips. Experienced divers can dive with big fish such as tuna, marlin, giant trevally, and sharks. Those less experienced can still enjoy diving with manta rays in shallower waters.